Pope Leo XIV Leaves Hospital After Major Surgery: What Doctors Revealed

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Pope Leo XIV has been released from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital and returned to the Vatican, four days after undergoing surgery for lung cancer on Saturday.

The 71-year-old pontiff walked unaided to his vehicle and exchanged brief greetings with well-wishers who had gathered outside the hospital to see him off.

“I am better, thank you,” Leo said as he departed in a black sports utility vehicle.

His medical team approved his discharge after examining blood test results and chest imaging scans to evaluate his condition following the operation.

The pope arrived at the Vatican approximately 10 minutes after leaving the hospital.

Leo underwent surgery on Tuesday to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after doctors identified a nodule suspected of being cancerous. The procedure confirmed that he had adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer.

His doctors described the operation as successful, noting that it was completed without complications. However, they have not revealed the tumour’s size or whether the disease has spread to nearby lymph nodes, information that could provide a clearer indication of his prognosis.

The diagnosis has prompted concerns about the health of the relatively young and energetic pontiff, who was elected pope in May 2025, as well as the possible implications for his papacy.

Despite his recent health challenges, Leo is expected to lead the traditional weekly prayer with pilgrims in St Peter’s Square at noon on Sunday, marking his first public appearance since the surgery. The prayer is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. GMT.

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